In this parable, we are reminded how easy it is to become comfortable in our lives to the point that we don’t notice the suffering of others who are right in front of us. We take the relative safety and security that we enjoy for granted and become apathetic towards those who are not safe or secure. It would seem that the rich man has been infected with pride and ego, sins that continue even after his death. He fails to notice the poor man, who would be satisfied by crumbs from the table. The dogs show more concern for Lazarus than the rich man does.
While we cannot change the times when we have ignored or failed to care for someone in the past, this parable calls us to begin right now. How might you be more aware of and responsive to the need around you? How might your words and actions convince others that the way of Christ is life-giving?
Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for those whose lives have served as an example for what it looks like to put God and concern for neighbor at the center of their being.